Call for Peace: Pope Leo XIV and Ukraine's President Zelensky speak by phone

Pope Leo XIV spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following his strong appeal for peace in Ukraine and the return of children separated from their families. The Vatican's spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, confirmed the call, which came after the Pope’s public message during his Regina Caeli prayer on Sunday at St. Peter’s Basilica, according to Vatican News. Pope calls for true and lasting peace “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” Pope Leo XIV said. “I urge that every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible

Pope Leo XIV spoke by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following his strong appeal for peace in Ukraine and the return of children separated from their families. The Vatican's spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, confirmed the call, which came after the Pope’s public message during his Regina Caeli prayer on Sunday at St. Peter’s Basilica, according to Vatican News. Pope calls for true and lasting peace “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” Pope Leo XIV said. “I urge that every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.” He also asked for the release of prisoners and the return of children taken away during the war. “May all prisoners be freed, and may the children be returned to their families,” he said. The Pope reminded listeners that World War II ended 80 years ago and warned, “Never again war!” Zelensky thanks the Pope for support After their conversation, President Zelensky shared on social media that it was his first phone call with Pope Leo XIV. “We deeply value his words about the need to achieve a just and lasting peace for our country and the release of prisoners,” Zelensky said. He told the Pope about “the thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia” and said Ukraine hopes the Vatican can help bring them home. Ceasefire and hope for peace President Zelensky also told the Pope about a new agreement. “Starting today, a full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days must begin,” he explained. “Ukraine wants to end this war and is doing everything to achieve that,” he said. “We are ready for more negotiations, even direct talks.” Invitation to Ukraine Zelensky invited the Pope to visit Ukraine, saying, “Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers and to all our people.” He said they plan to meet in person soon and agreed to stay in touch.